2019 Ford Ranger vs 2019 Chevrolet Colorado

Before the Ford Ranger left the market in 2011, the Ranger and the Chevrolet Colorado were fiercely competitive rivals in the industry of midsize pickups. Now, the Ranger returns for the 2019 model year, reigniting that old rivalry. Does the returning Ranger have the grit to reclaim its reputation as a top contender in today’s market? See for yourself with this comprehensive comparison of the 2019 Ford Ranger and the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado.

With their standard engines, the Ranger and the Colorado come out about even in fuel efficiency. The Colorado brings in 20 city / 26 highway mpg, while the Ranger pulls ahead with 21 city / 26 highway mpg. Moving up the lineup, the Ranger sticks with the standard 2.3-liter turbo as its sole engine option. The Colorado adds an optional 3.6-liter V6, which brings a drop in fuel efficiency to 18 city / 25 highway mpg.

Comparing the Engine Performance Specs of the 2019 Ford Ranger and the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado

With that loss in fuel efficiency, you’d think the Chevy Colorado’s V6 would at least pull through in performance, but that’s not exactly the case. As you can see, the Colorado’s V6 pulls ahead with a 38-horsepower lead but falls right back into place delivering 35 lb.-ft. less torque than the Ford Ranger. If you’re looking to stick with the Colorado’s standard 2.5-liter Inline engine, you’ll be getting 70 less horsepower and 119 lb.-ft. less torque than you’d find on the Ranger.

Across the entire 2019 Ranger lineup, drivers enjoy the same 7,500-lb. towing capacity. The Chevy Colorado leaves much to be desired with a standard that engine maxes out with a 3,500-lb. towing capacity. Moving up to the V6, the Colorado gets boosted to a 7,000-lb. capacity that still falls short of the Ranger. Upgrading to the Colorado’s pricy Turbo Diesel engine would get you to the model’s absolute maximum towing capacity of 7,700 lbs.